Chris Isaak Returns to Zoo this SundayWeek Also Features Performances by Blue Hornets and Brubeck Broshttp://www.cabq.gov/culturalservices/biopark/news/chris-isaak-returns-to-zoo-this-sundayhttp://www.cabq.gov/culturalservices/biopark/news/chris-isaak-returns-to-zoo-this-sunday/@@download/image/Chris Isaak vertical WME-small.jpg

Chris Isaak Returns to Zoo this Sunday

Week Also Features Performances by Blue Hornets and Brubeck Bros

Most weeks throughout the summer, BioPark guests have two chances to see great evening concerts. This week, however, the BioPark is offering three nights of performances. In addition to the regular lineup of local and national talent for Summer Nights (Thursday) and Zoo Music (Friday), legendary rockabilly crooner Chris Isaak takes the stage for a benefit concert at the Zoo on Sunday, July 20.

The week of music begins with Albuquerque’s own reggae/ska/rocksteady band. The Blue Hornets fill up a space with the power of their sound and shear force on stage. A performance usually boasts 7-10 band members with a host of instruments. Their music ranges from classic Jamaican ska and original pieces to re-imagined classic jazz tunes where they lay down a strong rocksteady beat under familiar songs like Dave Brubeck’s “Take 5,” a notoriously difficult piece and consistent crowd favorite.

Speaking of Dave Brubeck, Friday’s Zoo Music performance brings The Brubeck Brothers, the sons of the famed jazz pianist. It can be hard to live up to a parent of famous rapport, but Chris and Dan Brubeck have deftly made their own waves while following along the path set by their father. “If there is such a thing as ‘born musicians’ then surely the sons of...Dave Brubeck qualify," writes Rick Mattingly of The Courier-Journal. Fluent in a variety of musical styles, Chris on bass and trombone and Dan on drums, along with guitarist Mike DeMicco and pianist Chuck Lamb, the Brubeck Brothers Quartet fluidly introduce elements of blues, funk and world music into their dynamic jazz performances.

Summer Nights and Zoo Music concerts tickets can be purchased in advance online or at the gate. Prices are: $10 adults; $5 seniors (65+); $3 children (3-12); Children 2 and younger are free. BioPark Members half-price.

Sunday’s Go Wild! Benefit Concert brings an encore performance by Chris Isaak, who drew enthusiastic crowds to the Zoo three years ago. The multi-platinum singer-songwriter and two-time Grammy Award nominee returns with his longtime band, Silvertone, on July 20. A few months after his last Zoo appearance, Isaak released “Beyond the Sun,” a tribute to his musical predecessors like Johnny Cash, Elvis and Jerry Lee Lewis. Covering their iconic hits, Isaak recreates the energy and passion of the music that has inspired him. He will perform new tunes as well as everyone’s favorite hits, including ‘Wicked Game,’ ‘ Somebody’s Cryin’ and ‘Baby Did a Bad Bad Thing.’ Tickets are $35 each and available online or at the gate. No discounts for this special fundraiser.